100 jobs cut at Datam

February 14, 2013
Joint Media Release [EPMU/PSA]

100 jobs cut at Datam

New Zealand Post-owned print and mailing house Datam has today informed unions it intends to make 100 redundancies in Wellington and Auckland.

The proposed job cuts come as a result of a restructuring exercise and will lead to the closure of the Petone plant at a cost of 75 jobs and a reduction of 28 roles in Auckland.

This announcement follows recent mass redundancies at Summit Wool Spinners, Mainzeal and Contact Energy.

EPMU postal sector organiser Joe Gallagher says the job cuts are a blow for communities already struggling with high unemployment.

“These redundancies have come as a shock to workers and it will take a while for everyone to digest what it means. New Zealand Post has committed to a fair consultation and timeframe but the reality is redundancy is never easy for anyone.

“While we accept the restructuring is a result of new machinery being installed, we have serious concerns about the state of the job market our members will be facing and we believe this shows the need for a Government strategy to tackle the jobs crisis.”

The PSA says unions will be working with the company to look at future options for workers.

“It’s always disappointing to see good jobs being lost and given the lack of employment opportunities in the market, it’s important that Datam look at retraining and redeployment possibilities for affected staff within the organisation. We’ll be working hard to make sure that happens,” says PSA Assistant Secretary Jeff Osborne.

The unions understand the company intends to create 30 new positions in Christchurch as part of the restructure.

ENDS

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